Finance Manager in St Helens

Finance Manager (4785) St. Helens, England

Salary: GBP60000 - GBP65000 per annum

About the Role

We are looking for a hands‑on Financial Controller to lead the finance function within our growing manufacturing business. Reporting directly to the Managing Director, you will be responsible for the day‑to‑day financial management of the company while providing commercial insight to support strategic decision‑making.

This is a varied role suited to someone who enjoys rolling up their sleeves. As part of a small business, you will be equally comfortable preparing monthly management accounts, managing cash flow, supporting audits, overseeing transactional finance and working closely with production, purchasing and warehouse teams to improve business performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly management accounts, including Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet and cash flow reporting.
• Produce Group reporting packs in line with reporting deadlines.
• Prepare Inventory Depreciation and Intercompany Matching reports.
• Manage the month‑end and year‑end close process.
• Maintain accurate accounting for fixed assets, accruals, prepayments and inventory.
• Prepare budgets, forecasts and financial analysis to support business planning.
• Prepare rolling cash flow forecasts and actively manage company cash flow.
• Manage GBP, EUR and USD bank accounts, including payment authorisation.
• Administer intercompany and external loans.
• Manage foreign currency transactions and exposure.
• Ensure all statutory accounts, Companies House filings and HMRC returns are completed accurately and on time.
• Maintain robust financial controls and ensure compliance with accounting standards.

As the senior finance person within the business, you will also oversee and support the day‑to‑day finance activities, including:

• Reviewing purchase and sales ledgers.
• Supporting credit control and supplier payments.
• Resolving accounting queries from across the business.
• Assisting with payroll where required.
• Continuously improving finance processes and systems.

About You

You are an experienced finance professional who enjoys working in a hands‑on role within a manufacturing environment. You are equally comfortable producing detailed financial reports as you are helping solve day‑to‑day operational challenges.

You'll ideally have:

• ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualification (or be qualified by experience).
• Previous experience within a manufacturing or engineering business.
• Strong knowledge of management accounting, inventory and costing.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting and cash flow management.
• Excellent Excel and accounting/ERP system skills.
• A practical, proactive approach with the ability to work independently.
• Strong communication skills and the confidence to work closely with colleagues across all areas of the business.